David McNew/Getty Images(CHICAGO) -- A three-year-old Chicago boy will need reconstructive surgery on his face after being bitten by a coyote in the city's West Side.

The attack occurred three weeks ago, but a bite mark is still visible on Emeil Hawkins' left cheek.

The boyfriend of the boy's mother, Bryce Kyle, told ABC News parents in the area should warn their children about the wild animals.

"Look, let's educate our children about the coyotes. We all know that they're here, we cohabitate with them… Anything that the coyotes pose as not a potential threat could easily become the victim of an incident,” Kyle said.

According to Kyle, Emeil needed a series of shots following the attack, but he is progressing faster than they expected.